Online Learning · ESA Guide
Best online ESA-eligible learning options
Online learning has exploded in ESA states — and so have the platforms claiming to accept ESA funds. Here is how to find what is actually enrolled in your state's marketplace, by subject, grade, and format.
The two categories of online ESA learning
Online learning options for ESA families fall into two broad categories:
- Full online homeschool programs — serve as the student's primary curriculum and educational structure (see ESA-approved online homeschool programs).
- Supplemental online learning — individual courses, tutoring, practice platforms, and enrichment programs that complement any educational setting.
This guide focuses on the second category — supplemental online learning options that families use alongside their primary education arrangement.
Online platforms that participate in ESA programs
| Platform | Type | Grades | Subjects | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outschool | Live online classes | K–12 | All subjects + enrichment | Enrolled in multiple ESA programs; check your state |
| Khan Academy (Khanmigo) | Self-paced + AI tutoring | K–12 | Math, science, humanities | Some paid tiers; verify enrollment |
| Time4Learning | Self-paced curriculum | PreK–12 | Full curriculum | Enrolled in several ESA programs |
| IXL Learning | Adaptive practice | K–12 | Math, ELA, science, social studies | Check your state's marketplace |
| Connections Academy | Full virtual school | K–12 | Full curriculum | Available in select states; check enrollment |
| Beast Academy Online | Math curriculum | 2–5 | Advanced math | Verify ESA marketplace enrollment |
| All About Reading (online) | Phonics instruction | PreK–3 | Reading/phonics | Check ClassWallet/Odyssey enrollment |
| Varsity Tutors | Live tutoring | K–college | All subjects | Enrolled in multiple ESA programs |
Enrollment status changes throughout the year. Always verify in your state's marketplace before purchasing a subscription or booking a class.
How to verify an online platform is enrolled in your state
- Log into your ESA marketplace account (ClassWallet, Odyssey, Step Up / MyScholarShop).
- Search for the platform by name in the vendor directory.
- Confirm active enrollment status for your specific state program.
- For subscription services, check whether the full subscription or only specific products are covered.
Some platforms offer different purchase paths depending on the state — for example, individual Outschool classes may be available through some state accounts while full subscriptions are not. Read the vendor listing carefully.
Choosing the right online option for your child
Match the platform type to your child's learning needs:
- Self-paced learner: Time4Learning, IXL, Khan Academy
- Live instruction preferred: Outschool, Varsity Tutors
- Advanced math: Beast Academy, Art of Problem Solving (verify enrollment)
- Early literacy: All About Reading, Reading Eggs
- Enrichment and interests: Outschool specializes in interest-driven live classes
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Can ESA funds pay for online learning platforms?
Yes, in most ESA states. Online learning platforms — virtual schools, subscription-based courses, live online classes, and tutoring platforms — are eligible in most programs if the provider is enrolled in your state's ESA marketplace (ClassWallet, Odyssey, Step Up, etc.).
What is the difference between online homeschool programs and online supplemental learning?
Online homeschool programs are full-curriculum programs that serve as the student's primary education (similar to a virtual school). Supplemental online learning includes individual courses, tutoring sessions, or subject-specific platforms that complement a student's main educational setting. Both types can be ESA-eligible if the provider is enrolled.
How do I verify an online platform is enrolled in my state's ESA program?
Log into your ESA account (ClassWallet, Odyssey, Step Up) and search for the platform by name. If it appears in the marketplace with an active status, it is enrolled. If it does not appear, it is not enrolled — regardless of what the platform's marketing says.
Are subscription-based learning apps ESA-eligible?
Some subscription-based educational apps are enrolled in ESA programs. Khan Academy, Outschool, Reading Eggs, and others have participated in various programs. The key is verifying current enrollment in your specific state's program — not just the platform's general claim of ESA eligibility.
Can I use ESA funds for live online classes on platforms like Outschool?
Outschool has enrolled in several ESA programs and some classes are purchasable with ESA funds through enrolled state accounts. The eligibility depends on your state program and which Outschool classes qualify as educational expenses. Check your program's marketplace for Outschool availability.
Do online programs count toward my state's compulsory attendance requirements?
This depends on your state's homeschool and private school laws, not on the ESA program. ESA eligibility and compulsory attendance compliance are separate legal questions. Most families using ESA-funded online programs for homeschooling comply with state homeschool laws in addition to the ESA requirements. Consult your state's homeschool association for guidance.